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Arrowsmith Aerial Photography
A bird’s-eye view of Nanaimo.
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Pulling into any one of the marinas provides the chance to experience the many attractions.
Words by David Mailloux
Boaters can be creatures of habit and love to do the same thing every season. They visit the same marina, do the same activities, travel with the same boat companions and even use the same dock location. If traditions are what boaters love, then by all means they should enjoy them. Boaters get the most out of their marina experience when expectations are met and exceeded. Many have a sense of adventure and, after all, it‘s what draws them to the water and their plans don’t change when they arrive at the boat basin docks. However, not all marinas can be everything to everyone, or can they?
Returning boaters and new visitors to Nanaimo enjoy their boating traditions mixed with a series of activities that are just a few steps away from their vessels. There are many choices of things to do and see and boaters are discovering them every year. In fact, it could be said that Nanaimo reinvents boating experiences with a promise of return visits.
For instance, the Nanaimo Museum and Vancouver Island Military Museum, which are virtually across the street from the marina are popular attractions and often referred to as “awesome.” Or, there’s a range of international and local dining experiences floating nearby and a downtown that`s often described as “incredible.” Each offers the same level of quality found in any major city, but they embrace friendly, small-town charm.
Look to the many parks and there’s lush nature mixed with history, which reflects the rich First Nations culture of the Coast Salish people. The park system has 170 km (105 miles) of trails – that can be invigorating or relaxing – but there`s something for everyone. Combine cuisine and trail blazing, and the essence of Nanaimo will be discovered with the Nanaimo Bar Trail. This popular route mixes history, pubs, bakeries and eateries with the area’s iconic treat (did you know the Nanaimo Bar was featured at a State dinner in the White House?)
For exercise and adventure, try the region’s mountain bike trails, which attract beginners to the more experienced challenges of the sport. Golf is a favourite pastime on the island with many choices for all levels and courses are never too far away. Plus, there’s island cruising on motor bikes and on the water, many take to scuba diving to explore the depths of this incredible diving destination with its choice of wrecks and active marine wildlife. Nanaimo is also a haven for kayakers on the BC Marine Trail.
The people of Nanaimo also like to celebrate. Festivals and events are celebrated almost every weekend but be sure to make reservations early as these weekends always book first. To get a different perspective of the area, walk to the near-by float plane offices and book a tour of scenic memories that will last a lifetime. The Friday Famer’s Market is another favourite among boaters.
Regardless of your boating style, there’s a variety of cultures, authentic experiences and much activity in Nanaimo to discover. This is a boating community where you can reinvent your boating experiences, and go beyond your expectations.
For all the details of the region visit marina.npa.ca
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